Letter: Late Roger Rodas was an inspiration

December 10, 2013

Roger Rodas, who was killed in the car crash with Paul Walker,… (Courtesy of Hoover…)

Regarding the deaths of Roger Rodas and actor Paul Walker in a car crash Nov. 30: It is with a heavy heart and much sadness I mourn the death of Roger Rodas, a former student and friend. When Roger was at Hoover he impressed me with his passion for life and his kindness to fellow students. His involvement in the classroom and student activities made the experiences of all concerned better. In athletics he had the heart of a lion and would lead with a quiet determination.

He enjoyed his football experience at Hoover with the pleasure of knowing he did his best. When meeting with Roger later in his career we would reminisce over certain games, plays and photographs of game action. We would talk about Beat Glendale Day, proms and all the glitter of high school. Roger had an exuberance for life that was infectious and I enjoyed being involved as a client in his profession.

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One day my wife, Carol, happened to go to the Bank of America in Burbank and ran in to Roger, who had just started working there. When they began talking, Roger said, “Oh, you are Coach’s wife.” That began the journey with Roger as our financial adviser and friend. Many years later that was the best decision we ever made. Through the years Carol and I did many things with Roger, golfing, car shows and attending his educational and inspirational dinner events. Roger always was generous with his friends and guests. He had a knack for making everyone feel a part of a group and involved, regardless of who they were. He was beloved by his staff and co-workers at the Rodas Group in Glendale.

Roger made a difference in this world with his passion for life and love for his family. He imparted in me a zest for pursuing your dreams and kindness to fellow man. I will always think of Roger and how he touched the stars in what ever he pursued. Roger, you are loved and will be missed.